Toyota is well-known globally for making long lasting vehicles. From minivans to SUVs and pickup trucks, they have a wide variety of models to choose from.
Before Tundra and Tacoma, there was the Toyota Pickup. The 1986 model was a full-size truck that had solid axles front and rear, a sturdy boxed frame, and incredibly reliable engines.
1. Hilux
Toyota is known for building vehicles that can be used for nearly anything. But one model that really stood out to truck lovers around the world was the Hilux. This truck is legendary for its off-road capabilities and even made an appearance in Back to the Future.
The Hilux was so incredibly capable that it earned the nickname "Invincible". It has been crashed, burnt, and set on fire, and none of those tests have ever killed it.
While the current Tacoma has a lot of features that can appeal to American truck drivers, there is something about a small, dependable, and simple pickup that draws people in. With the right market conditions, Toyota could bring the Hilux back to America. The country that loves trucks the most needs this model more than ever before.
2. Tacoma
The Tacoma has been a big hit for Toyota since it first went on sale. The truck's optimal proportions make it better suited for off-roading than full-size pickups, and aftermarket Tacoma modifications have become a multimillion-dollar industry.
This current generation of the Tacoma has a host of new features, including Toyota Safety Sense 3.0. The suite includes advanced driver assistance technologies like pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, and automatic high-beam control.
This latest generation of Tacoma is built on Toyota's global TNGA-F truck platform and is capable of handling a wide range of tasks. It can be used for everything from rock crawling to high-speed desert racing, and its off-road capabilities are impressive for a compact pickup. The only issue is that rust can quickly destroy one of these trucks, and finding a good example in decent condition can be challenging.
3. Tundra
The full-size Tundra is a modern truck built for adventure. It features rugged off-road capability, impressive towing power, and advanced technology to help you take on any challenge.
On the road, the Tundra handles well with a smooth engine note and easy acceleration. It can also handle a heavy load in its bed. The crew-cab version can haul up to 12,000 pounds.
The redesigned Tundra features an aluminum-reinforced bed made of an ultra-durable sheet-molded composite. This material acts as a shield against impact dents and rust.
Toyota’s standard Safety Sense 2.5 works tirelessly behind the scenes to keep you and your passengers safe. This includes a pre-collision system that warns you of potential danger so you can avert it. It also offers a blind-spot monitor that lets you see vehicles in your blind spots.
4. Stout
Before the Tacoma and Hilux made a name for themselves, Toyota’s North American pickup efforts were led by a compact model called the Stout. Originally introduced in 1964, this half-ton truck used a 1.9 liter engine and offered rear-wheel drive with the traditional suspension setup that was typical of trucks at the time.
With rumors circulating that Toyota may resurrect this nameplate for the 2024 model year, it seems as though the automotive tide has turned back toward compact pickups. If this is the case, the Stout will most likely be able to compete with Ford’s Maverick by offering segment-topping towing and payload capabilities.
The Stout’s fully boxed frame is also a big selling point as it offers a level of durability that could allow the truck to outlast its owners. Add in Fox-branded 2.5 inch internal bypass dampers and the ability to select terrain settings with the touch of a button, and this little Toyota is one heck of an off-road machine.
5. Land Cruiser
The Land Cruiser was a true Toyota truck that was meant for adventure. Unfortunately, over the years it became a high-priced luxury seven-passenger SUV that lost some of its legendary durability and off-road capabilities.
The 4Runner is one of Toyota’s most popular trucks, offering reliability and capability in a practical package. It is based on the Land Cruiser Prado and offers a rear locker, independent front suspension, and clever off-road systems like A-Track and Crawl Control.
The latest Tundra is the toughest iteration of Toyota’s flagship pickup. It has an eye-watering payload capacity and towing capacity, as well as a host of premium interior amenities. It also borrows design inspiration from the FJ45 and other Land Cruiser models. CALTY Design Research aimed for authenticity and reliability in the 2023 Tundra’s design.
